Information for the public

Benefits and risks

Benefits and risks

When NICE looked at the evidence, it decided that there was not enough evidence to know how well this procedure works or how safe it is. The 8 studies that NICE looked at involved a total of 404 patients.

Generally the studies showed that swallowing improved after the procedure. But in some patients it did not improve or symptoms came back, and further treatment was needed.

The studies showed that the risks of the procedure included:

  • holes or tears in the gullet, needing further treatment

  • paralysis of the vocal cords, causing speech problems

  • aspiration pneumonia, needing treatment in hospital

  • severe bleeding.

NICE was also told about some other possible risks: damaged teeth, chest pain, infection in the mid‑chest, and scarring and further problems in patients who had treatment with radiotherapy.

If you want to know more about the studies, see the guidance. Ask your health professional to explain anything you don't understand.

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